ARTICLES / DANGERS OF ISOCYANATES

Potential Dangers of Electronic Potting Material

12/18/18

Electronic devices ranging from hand-held toys to large computer systems use electronic potting material. The substance has been in use for many years, but only recently have concerns about the material used come to the attention of the general public.
What is Electronic Potting Material?
These are compounds used in electronic devices designed to protect the wiring and inner workings against the stresses of temperature changes, moisture, and stresses induced by chemical exposure. Most potting material is made from formulations of polyurethane which is an inexpensive, yet durable and flexible material that covers the sensitive electronics to insulate, provide additional strength, and resist chemical exposure.

The material is applied during the assembly of the product and can be found in many electronic devices that range from the very small to quite large. The benefits of the material start with its protective qualities that have helped to keep electronic devices active and working for a long time. Because the material itself is quite inexpensive, its use is widespread and adds durability that otherwise would be lacking in most devices.
Potential Dangers
Unfortunately, polyurethane also contains Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) that have proven to be harmful to humans. When breathed in, VOCs may cause damage to the respiratory system ranging from symptoms similar to allergies to stronger reactions, especially for those with asthma or weakened immune systems.

While VOCs have been known for many years, it was believed until recently that their presence in electronic devices was so small that it did not present a danger. Perhaps that was true long ago, but today with people surrounded by devices that contain electronic potting material, the danger has grown to the point where companies are considering using alternate materials.

This is because it was believed that VOCs were trapped inside the hardened potting material and presented no danger. However, recent studies have shown that with environmental and temperature changes, the VOCs are released into the atmosphere. While the release rate is relatively small, the indoor environment traps the VOCs inside. This means that they build up over time and present a danger to those who live or work inside a residence, office, or facility.

The concern over such potting material has led to the development of alternative materials along with polyurethane that has been stripped of most, if not all VOCs. For businesses that use potting material in the construction of their devices, having a safe alternative protects those inside your office or facility.
Why Hybrid Coating Technologies is the Answer
At Hybrid Coating Technologies, we supply electronic potting material that removes the toxic isocyanates that make up the VOCs found in polyurethane products. This means that you get the best elements of the potting material needed to make your devices work properly while greatly reducing, if not eliminating the toxic properties associated with the product.

Visit Hybrid Coating Technologies on the web today and talk with our friendly, staff about the different materials available for electronic potting that are safe, simple to use, and competitively priced. Get a free no obligation quote here.